Outreach Events

In addition to its subscription series in Zilkha Hall and school outreach activities, Ars Lyrica provides performances throughout the Houston community. Ars Lyrica's outreach initiative is aligned with our mission to revive important musical works and practices. Through presentations of period instruments and demonstrations of historical performance practices, we strive to demystify the music of the Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical periods. An ongoing partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts has resulted in a number of programs and lectures at MFAH facilities (including Bayou Bend, Rienzi, and MFAH main galleries) that complement visual art exhibitions. Through joint events and cross-promotion with partners including Harmony in the Air,The Houston Methodist Hospital's Center for Performing Arts Medicine, Houston Early Music Festival, M.E.C.A., Theater District Open House, Discovery Green, The Children’s Museum of Houston, Foreign Consulates, and Heights Kids’ Day of Music, Ars Lyrica continues to reach out to new and diverse audiences and make a significant impact on the community.

"Ars Lyrica is one of the finest ensembles of its kind ... and greatly enriches the musical life of the City of Houston." - Robert Cole, Artistic Director, Berkeley Early Music Festival and Exhibition

“We’re so pleased for Ars Lyrica and its growing success under your direction and Matthew’s phenomenal talent. It’s a joy to see and hear!” — Adele and Toni Gorody

“What a perfect afternoon; you should be proud! It was a fete champetre, made me think of rococo and Boucher paintings....it was so lovely, I do so admire and respect you for what you are achieving with Ars Lyrica. Please keep it up and give us more Rienzi experiences. Compliments to all the performers.” — Ann Thompson, Opera lecturer

Artful Thursday: Handel’s “Alexander’s Feast”

Presented by Matthew Dirst, artistic director, Ars Lyrica, and professor of music, Moores School of Music, University of Houston; and Yulia van Doren, soprano

Matthew Dirst provides a preview and insights into Ars Lyrica's 2014–15 season-finale performance of George Handel's Alexander’s Feast—Or, The Power of Music, produced in collaboration with Bach Society Houston. This remarkable musical tale—a rarely heard oratorio—relates how the rapturous song of a musician named Timotheus aroused and moved Alexander the Great.

The music is placed in the context of depictions of Alexander the Great and St. Cecilia: Alexander served as inspiration for the composition, which was written to celebrate Saint Cecilia's Day. Yulia van Doren—often hailed by critics for her “perfect baroque voice” (Seattle Times)—performs solo excerpts.

About Artful ThursdaysOnce a month, the visual arts cross paths with dance and music, prose and poetry, fashion and film, science and psychology through performances, discussions, and other events at the Museum. This program is free! Drop in to participate. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Upcoming Outreach Events

Enjoy a romantic Valentine’s evening by relaxing with a glass of wine on the Rienzi terrace and exploring the house museum at twilight! Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, good conversation, and live theorbo music by ALH artist Michael Leopold.